Malis New $10,000 Visa Fee for U.S. Travelers Explained

The West African nation of Mali has announced a swift retaliatory measure against the United States. The new policy requires American citizens to pay a substantial cash deposit for entry visas. This action directly mirrors a recent U.S. visa bond program targeting Malian nationals.

The Malian government confirmed the decision just two days after the U.S. unveiled its own policy. According to the U.S. Department of State, its new pilot program requires citizens from Mali and several other nations to post bonds between $5,000 and $10,000 for business and tourist visas.

Mali’s Reciprocal Visa Bond Policy

Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation officially announced the measure on October 12, 2025. The policy is framed as a direct response based on the principle of diplomatic reciprocity. It requires U.S. travelers to deposit up to $10,000 to secure a visa.

The Malian government stated the U.S. action undermined a long-standing bilateral visa agreement. This 2005 agreement had facilitated multiple-entry, long-term visas between the two countries. The new rule took effect immediately for American applicants.

Details of the U.S. Visa Bond Program

The U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bond Pilot Program is set to begin on October 23, 2025. It targets Malian applicants for B-1/B-2 visas. Approved applicants must post a bond through the Treasury’s Pay.gov platform at their visa interview.

This pilot program includes several other African nations. Countries like Tanzania, Zambia, and Malawi are also subject to the new bond requirement. The program is scheduled to run until August 2026.

Deteriorating Diplomatic Relations

Diplomatic relations between Mali and the U.S. have been strained for years. Tensions escalated following military coups in Mali in 2020 and 2021. The U.S. suspended significant military and financial aid to the Malian junta.

The U.S. has also imposed sanctions on the current regime. Officials have criticized Mali’s growing ties with Russia and its authoritarian trajectory. The U.S. currently maintains a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Mali, citing extreme risks.

This tit-for-tat visa bond escalation signals a new low in U.S.-Mali relations, creating significant financial and logistical hurdles for travelers from both nations and effectively cooling diplomatic engagement.

Info at your fingertips

How much is the Mali visa bond for Americans?

The bond required for U.S. citizens is a maximum of $10,000. This is a cash deposit paid during the visa application process.

When did the Mali visa bond rule start?

The Malian government announced the policy on October 12, 2025. It took effect immediately for new U.S. visa applicants.

Which other countries are affected by the U.S. visa bond?

The U.S. program also targets nationals from Mauritania, Tanzania, The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia. These countries face the same $5,000 to $10,000 bond requirement.

Is the visa bond refundable?

Yes, the bond can be refunded. The Malian policy states the deposit is returned if the traveler complies with all visa terms and departs on time.

Why are U.S.-Mali relations so strained?

Relations deteriorated after military coups in Mali. The U.S. suspended aid, imposed sanctions, and opposes the junta’s ties with Russia and authoritarian governance.